Research students from around the globe

Leeds is an international and intercultural campus. Students come from all over the world to make use of our outstanding facilities, including our extensive research library, laboratories and computing facilities.

Lagos? Leipzig? Lanzhou? Leeds? Wherever you are, you can be part of the University of Leeds Global Community. This is the place to network, share ideas and meet new friends before you arrive in Leeds. Find out more about how to join the University of Leeds Global Community.

The university is located less than 10 miles from Leeds Bradford International Airport where you can get flights to a variety of countries, both in and outside Europe. Manchester Airport is also just over an hour's drivce away, with a more extensive range of destinations it couldn't be easier for you to get where you need to go.

If you're flying into or leaving from the larger London airports, Heathrow or Gatwick, Leeds has an extremely well connected rail network with regular trains to London Kings Cross, taking less than 2.5 hours. See National Rail Enquiries for more information about train travel.

International Entry Requirements

PhD / MSc by Research

All applicants should normally have, or expect to achieve a First Class or Upper Second Class undergraduate degree (or equivalent). Applicants with equivalent relevant professional experience are encouraged to contact the Graduate School Office prior to applying. For advice on whether your qualifications are suitable for entry to our degree programmes, please contact Research Postgraduate (PhD) Admissions .

English language requirements

If English is not your first language, you will need an English language qualification to gain entry to the University of Leeds. The two most commonly used are IELTS and TOEFL. Acceptable minimum qualifications for admission to a research degree at the University of Leeds include:

IELTS - score of 6.0 overall (with not less than 5.5 in any component)

Those who have not yet achieved the relevant scores in IELTS or TOEFL may nevertheless work towards the necessary standard by undertaking a pre-sessional course of an appropriate length in the Language Centre and then taking IELTS. Once you have achieved the relevant standard you may proceed to registration. Additional fees are required for pre-sessional courses.

Dependent upon project. Likely to be in the range £3,000 to £12,000 dependent upon area of study. Please consult your supervisor .

The academic fee covers tuition and exam costs as well as membership of the Students' Union. International students will pay a higher fee than UK students as the fees for UK and European Union (EU) students are subsidised by the UK government, but international students may be eligible for financial help via international scholarships. The bench fee covers the lab costs associated with the research project and vary depending on the nature of the project. Your chosen supervisor will be able to provide a breakdown of the costs.

When to pay

Fees must be paid in full before you can register as a postgraduate research student, unless you will be paying for yourself. If you are self-supporting you can pay fees in two instalments, the first payable at registration.

If you are supported by your government, employer, or other sponsor, you should provide a letter from them addressed to the University, confirming that the fees will be paid directly to the University of Leeds. Sponsors cannot pay by instalments.

DisclaimerThe information provided is for general guidance purposes only. The University believes the information provided is accurate at the time of publication. The University cannot accept liability for any inaccuracies.

International Scholarships for Research Students

Leeds International Research Scholarship (LIRS)

The University of Leeds offers 2 rounds of 9 fully-funded places each year for outstanding international students. The competition usually closes in January and June and the successful candidates will start their studies the following October or January. Applicants must have or be expecting to receive the equivalent of a first class degree and must meet the language requirements at point of application.

University postgraduate scholarships online database

Disclaimer
Information relating to scholarships does change from time to time. Whilst the University endeavours to keep this information as up to date as possible, the University cannot be held liable for any inaccuracies.

International Student Support Services

Many years experience has taught us that international students have particular needs and the University offers a full range of services to help you before you arrive and once you are here.

Preparing for Leeds

International student handbook (download pdf)
Information about the country, the city and the University. This comprehensive guide for all new international students gives you a step-by-step guide to help you in your first few weeks and beyond. We are situated in the heart of a vibrant and multicultural city, so read this guide and you will feel at home right away.

After graduation

Join our online alumni community after graduation and enjoy strong friendships and supportive networking opportunities long after you have left us.

Postgraduate accommodation for overseas students

We understand the importance of finding the right living environment to help you settle in, study effectively and enjoy a good social life. We believe University accommodation offers unrivalled value for money, but some postgraduate students may prefer to rent private accommodation. Private accommodation can sometimes be cheaper and can be a good option for some postgraduates.

Overseas postgraduates: our guarantee

New international postgraduates paying fees at the full international rate have a guaranteed place in University accommodation during their first year, subject to certain conditions. The University Accommodation Office offers detailed information and guidance for postgraduates. Take a look at the options before deciding which one is best for you.

Visits to your region/country

The International Office at the University of Leeds regularly travels overseas to meet with prospective students and advise them about life as an international student in Leeds. Overseas visit schedule.

Biological Sciences students from China

The Faculty of Biological Sciences has its own Leeds-based China Liaison Officer who can help with queries: